I do not understand the use of RTV on the valve cover gaskets.

Never used it, never had leak issues. Use a good gaket, not cheap o cork junk.

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/DCC-5249581/?rtype=10

or

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/MOR-93055/?rtype=10

They say there are no such thing as a stupid question.
They say there is always the exception that proves the rule.
Don't be the exception.